“Emerging evidence in early childhood development (ECD) research demonstrates that the rapid brain development taking place during a child’s first years makes early childhood pivotal in setting the framework from which children develop and learn throughout their lives. Because the brain is highly adaptable at this time, prolonged exposure to negative situations can impact a child’s physical, social, cognitive, and emotional capacities, leading to physiological damages and other potentially lifelong consequences. Research-‐based ECD intervention, however, are among the most successful and cost-‐ effective methods for improving both short and long-‐term outcomes for vulnerable children, their families and communities. Despite the ranging benefits of early intervention, ECD interventions are not a priority for programs intended for orphans and vulnerable children (OVC), and there is existing research on ECD interventions designed for OVC.
The following technical brief Early Childhood Development for Orphans and Vulnerable Children: Key Considerations describes the three core elements of ECD programming, provides an overview of key findings from the research and literature on ECD, and responds to commonly asked questions regarding ECD programs for OVC. Because OVC are at a higher risk of experiencing adversity and chronic stress, it is especially crucial that ECD interventions for OVC implement programs aimed to support stable and responsive environment of relationships for children, safe and supportive physical environments which enable exploration and learning, and sound nutrition and disease prevention. Intended for program managers interested in implementing ECD programs in their work with OVC, this brief also includes examples for successful programming as well as references for additional resources on ECD for OVC.”